Fifteen people, ranging in age from 18 to 26 and suspected to be involved in gang activity and violence, were arrested after 10 warrants were executed at addresses in Tulse Hill and the surrounding south London area on Thursday (November 15).

So far police have seized a large quantity of class A and B drugs, around £10,000 in cash and a range of suspected stolen goods but searches are ongoing.

Detective Inspector Anthony Jones from Trident said: "This morning's operation is the culmination of weeks of planning by my officers.

"We have worked tirelessly to identify those believed to be involved in gang activity, drug supply and violence across the south of London and I am pleased with the results of this activity.

"Searches will be ongoing at addresses and across the Tilson estate in Tulse Hill throughout the morning.

"The seizures we have made already will further support our case against these individuals we believe to be involved in a range of criminal activity.

"We will continue to work closely with our colleagues on borough and in other specialist units across the Met to identify and apprehend those intent on, or considering, committing acts of violence."

The 15 suspects were arrested on suspicion of a range of offences, including supplying Class A drugs and possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply.

Those targeted are also believed to be involved in the transportation of drugs from London to Kent, Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire and Berkshire.

All suspects have been taken to a south London police station where they remain in custody.

Was your road involved?

Residents of these roads awake in the early hours on Thursday (November 15) may have noticed a heightened police presence as raids were carried out.

New Park Road, SW2

Vibart Gardens, SW2

Sangley Road, SE6

Masey Mews, SW2

Valley Road, SW16

Challice Way, SW2

Stockwell Gardens Estate, SW9

Tilson Gardens, SW2

Clarence Ave, SW4

A search of the Tilson Gardens Estate in Tulse Hill was also conducted.

Commander of the Central South Command Unit Chief Superintendent Simon Messinger said that tackling violence is the police's "main priority" and referred the recent violence in south London which has "caused devastation to families, friends and communities".

Tulse Hill was rocked just over a week ago by the shocking murder of 16-year-old John Ogunjobi, who was stabbed to death on November 5.

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CSI Messinger said: "This morning's activity targeted those who are suspected to be involved in gang activity, drug dealing, and violence across the south of London.

"We will continue to carry out operations targeting those intent on committing acts of violence across the city, utilising our local resources but also working closely with units across the Met including the Violent Crime Taskforce and Trident.

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"We will also continue our prevention work to keep our communities safe. Across the Met this year, officers have conducted more than 20,000 weapons sweeps and seized hundreds of lethal weapons.

"The support of our communities is vital in combatting violent crime. Anyone who has any information which could help our investigations into the senseless acts of violence we've witnessed in recent weeks should contact police as soon as possible."

Concerned residents can approach officers they see patrolling the streets or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.